For Jay of Lasgalen, who loves the twins, and Cairistiona, who loves Aragorn, for their birthdays. Beta by RiverOtter.

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The Begetting Day Gift

Elrohir’s mouth fell open as he looked down at his brother, sitting upon the ground, rubbing at his suddenly stinging wrist and staring at his sword, which was slowly turning its final twist upon the ground.

Estel took a deep breath, slid his own weapon back into its sheath, and lifted a hand to brush sweat-soaked hair out of his eyes. His voice was almost steady as he said, “You told me that I could ride out with the warriors once I’d bested one of you with my sword. For your begetting day, you have another fighter in your company.”